Fast-moving wildfire in Reno, Nevada, forces thousands to evacuate homes
Hawk fire has covered more than 10,500 acres as blaze approaches University of Nevada campus in Reno A fast-moving Nevada wildfire exploded to more than 10,500 acres (4,200 hectares) early on Sunday, pushing from the Sierra foothills toward the center of Reno and forcing nearly 14,000 homes to evacuate as flames threatened neighborhoods and reached the edge of the University of Nevada campus. The…
The Hawk fire has rapidly expanded to over 10,500 acres near Reno, Nevada, prompting the evacuation of nearly 14,000 homes. Strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation have driven the blaze towards the University of Nevada campus and the city center. Mayor Hillary Schieve urged residents to evacuate immediately, stating, "If you have been told to evacuate, please don’t wait!"
Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County, and the Nevada National Guard was deployed to assist. Two helicopter crews and 60 troops were utilized for aerial firefighting and police support. Approximately 400 personnel from various agencies are currently battling the fire. Around 10,000 homes and businesses in Washoe County are currently without power, and US Route 395, a major north-south highway, has been closed due to the fire.
Reno, which has a population of over 280,000, opened the Reno-Sparks Convention Center for evacuees, but pets had to be taken to alternative locations. Several road closures were in effect, and the university campus remained just outside the evacuation zone. The city's airports remained open, except for the smaller Reno-Stead airport, which was closed to general aviation for firefighting purposes.
The Washoe County Sheriff ensured the safety of inmates at a detention facility near the evacuation zone.
Written by urgent.news from The Guardian US's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
